Dangerous Rip Currents and Coastal Flooding Expected in Pender and New Hanover

Coastal Pender and Coastal New Hanover counties are under a Rip Current Statement, Coastal Flood Advisory, and High Surf Advisory issued by the National Weather Service Wilmington NC. These conditions are expected to create dangerous swimming conditions and minor coastal flooding.

A Rip Current Statement is in effect from 6 AM EDT Saturday through Saturday evening, indicating dangerous rip currents. Inexperienced swimmers are advised to remain out of the water. If caught in a rip current, relax and float, swim parallel to the shoreline if possible, and call or wave for help if unable to escape. Swim near a lifeguard.

A Coastal Flood Advisory is active from 6 AM to 10 AM EDT Saturday, with up to one half foot of inundation above ground level expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Drivers should allow extra time if travel is required, as roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Property owners in flood-prone areas should take necessary protective actions.

Additionally, a High Surf Advisory is in effect from 2 PM Saturday to 8 AM EDT Sunday, with large breaking waves of 4 to 6 feet expected in the surf zone. This will contribute to dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.

These alerts are effective immediately, issued October 9 at 8:19 PM EDT by NWS Wilmington NC, and continue through Saturday evening for rip currents, Saturday morning for coastal flooding, and Sunday morning for high surf.